Seismically Induced Fluid Forces on Elevated Tanks

Seismically induced fluid forces on elevated liquid storage tanks and their supporting systems are evaluated. X-braced as well as pedestal towers are analyzed. The interaction between liquid sloshing modes, tank rotation, tank translation and tank wall flexibility is taken into consideration to assess the relative importance of such effects on the overall earthquake response of elevated tanks. Ideal liquids and elastic towers are assumed throughout the first phase of the study. A comparison between the calculated forces and those provided by applicable codes is made.